Test cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has expressed his disappointment with Pakistan's batting approach following their defeat in the first T20I against South Africa in Durban. The visiting side fell short of the 184-run target, managing only 172-8 in their 20 overs, losing the match by 11 runs.  

Pakistan's chase got off to a rocky start as Babar Azam was dismissed for a duck. However, young batter Saim Ayub provided a glimmer of hope with an aggressive 31 off just 15 balls, featuring seven boundaries. Captain Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings with 74 off 62 deliveries, including five fours and three sixes, but his efforts proved insufficient as he was dismissed in the final over.  

Taking to his official X account, Ahmed Shehzad did not hold back in his criticism of Pakistan’s performance. “Close but not good enough. Pakistan cricket team not learning from their past mistakes,” Shehzad wrote. He highlighted the team's failure to capitalize on their opportunities in both bowling and batting.  

“Firstly, letting South Africa to 180+ from where they were in the game was unbelievable, and then how we went to chase about this target was bizarre from the beginning,” Shehzad added.  

The cricketer attributed the loss to a lack of intent and poor strike rotation during the chase. He also called on the senior players to step up and lead by example rather than relying on the younger players. “Too many dot balls & lack of intent in the chase cost us what could have been a victory for Pakistan. Seniors should be leading from the front, not hiding behind youngsters,” he said.  

Despite the defeat, Shehzad acknowledged the positive performances from Saim Ayub, Shaheen Afridi, and Abrar Ahmed. Shaheen and Abrar both claimed three wickets each, while Saim’s quick-fire innings stood out in an otherwise lackluster batting display.  

Pakistan will look to bounce back in the second match of the series, scheduled for December 13, Friday.